1997 - International Justice Mission is Born

When IJM was first established, Gary expected to receive up to 10 referrals of cases of abuse and oppression from global non-profits working alongside communities living in poverty. Instead, they received 20 cases – twice as many as expected. Meanwhile, 58 churches invited IJM to share the vision of ending slavery in our lifetime. It was immediately clear that this vision resonated with a global audience. 

1998 - The Good News about Injustice

IJM’s first stories of bringing people to safety were shared with the world in Gary Haugen’s book The Good News About Injustice. More than 20 years later, the bestselling book was selected and re-released as part of the InterVarsity Press Signature Collection of landmark works. 

1999 - IJM Operation Makes National TV

An IJM operation in Southeast Asia became a feature segment on CBS’ 60 Minutes. The story followed the rescue of children trapped in forced labour slavery on a tobacco farm. Soon after the special aired, three children from the documentary were officially granted freedom by the local government, and US Customs banned the import of tobacco products contributing to forced labour slavery.